The first name comes from the fact that it commemorates Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, when the crowd spread palm branches before him and cried "Hosanna" (John 12:13). The second name comes from the fact that the narrative of the Lord's Passion and Death is read on this Sunday.

Holy Week begins on Passion (or Palm) Sunday which joins the foretelling of Christ's regal triumph and the proclamation of His passion and death. Before Mass, palm fronds are distributed and blessed so that they can be carried in procession. The palms are then taken home, where they can serve as a reminder of the victory of Christ.

The ashes for Ash Wednesday are often made from the burning of palm branches blessed on Palm Sunday of the previous year.